The US Navy has awarded a Phase I small business innovation research (SBIR) contract to K2 Energy Solutions to develop a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) prismatic cell for naval applications. The Navy SBIR contract aims to adapt K2’s high-power cell technology to a prismatic design that can be used in the construction of large batteries. This research and development program will focus on minimizing temperature surges during heavy use and maximizing battery life without compromising safety.

K2 chief technical officer Dr Jim Hodge said: “K2 is currently providing batteries for a number of military applications, including the navy electromagnetic railgun program, and the Marines GREENS system.

“Our work on this navy SBIR project will help to ensure that we can continue to supply cutting edge energy storage systems for the increasingly demanding military applications of the future.”

Using K2’s advanced LFP electrode designs, the company will develop lightweight, high-capacity batteries that can operate in thermal environments.Intended for use in a variety of US Navy shipboard applications, the large, versatile prismatic cells will be capable of producing high power levels when compared to traditional cylindrical cells. The large prismatic cells currently used in commercial and industrial applications are incapable of producing the high power levels required by many anticipated navy shipboard applications. The SBIR program seeks to strengthen the role of innovative small business concerns in Federally-funded research and development projects.